Joint Fire Academy graduates 6 new recruits to serve in Fargo and West Fargo

Image by WDAY News First
Image by WDAY News First

(Fargo, ND) -- The Joint Fire Academy graduated 6 new recruits Friday to serve in fire departments in the cities of Fargo and West Fargo.

The ceremony in the commission chambers at Fargo City Hall included comments from fire chiefs from both departments and comments from the mayors for both cities. Spouses and other family members new pinned badges on the recruits who completed a 15 week training program.

“As we approach the end of the sixth Joint Firefighter Academy, we are thrilled to be introducing six additional firefighters to our communities. These recruits have gained the knowledge and skills required to be qualified first-responder and are commencing on what will undoubtably be a successful career.” remarks Fargo Fire Chief Steven Dirksen. 

“Our training team, comprised of firefighters from both Fargo and West Fargo, is extremely passionate about the joint academy. The benefit of cross-training between our two departments ensures that mutual aid is more effective during critical metro incidents. This joint academy is a perfect example of what can be accomplished when our communities work as a team.”

During his comments to the recruits, Dirksen encouraged them to take care of themselves during their careers, as it relates to their mental, physical, and emotional health. 

The group is the sixth to complete training at the Joint Fire Academy over the past three years.